Senate approves bill for public lands fight

The Arizona Senate has approved legislation that attempts to force the federal government to hand over control of public lands in the state.

A majority of the land in Arizona is controlled by federal agencies, but some state lawmakers say the state would be a better manager of that land.

Tucson Republican Sen. Al Melvin sponsored the measure and says federal regulations are killing industries like mining and timber, and the state could collect more money in property taxes if some of that land is sold.

Legal experts say the move is unconstitutional, and opponents say state leaders are likely to disregard environmental concerns.

A similar proposal was approved by the Utah legislature on Wednesday and awaits Utah Gov. Gary Herbert’s signature.

One comment

It would only make sense when first federal government is too INCOMPETENT to manage land under it’s control. They’ve totally ruined all domestic business use which is ONLY aid to economy. They can’t afford, have we realized the federal government is broke, how will they maintain when they have NO MONEY.???It’s not that complicated.